Addressing the gender pay gap in school trusts
A new report has found that the 2024 gender pay gap statistics for school trusts show promising progress. The ‘Gender pay gap in school trusts’ report was published this week by the Confederation of School Trusts (CST) in partnership with Browne Jacobson and Brightmine.
The research shows that the school trust sector is ahead of many other industries with the median gender pay gap at just 3.3%, which is a significant improvement over previous years and the significantly better than the national median of 8.6%. However, while this progress is encouraging, there is still much work to be done.
Leading by example
As part of the report, HR consultant Tracy Foster highlights the key role that school trusts can play in advancing gender pay equity. Her insights on the importance of leadership in this journey are crucial.
School trusts have an opportunity to lead by example, not only by ensuring fair pay policies but also by investing in programs to support women in senior roles, such as coaching and mentorship initiatives.
Foster also points out that a comprehensive approach is needed—one that includes transparent data collection, promoting flexible working at all levels, and challenging existing barriers that may disproportionately affect women in leadership roles.
More inclusive workplaces
By focusing on these key actions, school trusts can continue to make strides toward closing the gender pay gap, ultimately creating fairer and more inclusive workplaces for everyone.
While the sector’s performance is a step in the right direction, sustained focus on these critical areas will ensure lasting change.
Access the report on the CST website
Related support and guidance
Contact
Emma Hughes
Partner
emma.hughes@brownejacobson.com
+44 (0)330 045 2338
Related expertise
You may be interested in
Legal Update
DEI in school governance: Key themes and insights
Press Release
Browne Jacobson’s School Leaders Survey illustrates concerns over financial resilience ahead of spending review
Opinion
Addressing the gender pay gap in school trusts
Legal Update
Supporting mental wellbeing in the workplace: Practical steps for businesses
Legal Update
Unfunded pay rise for teachers risks strikes, tension, restructures and budget crisis
Legal Update
Supreme Court ruling on trans women: What schools need to know
Legal Update
The concept of sex is binary: For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers Supreme Court case explained
Legal Update
How academy trusts can avoid disputes over recruitment agency fees
Legal Update
Fair conduct dismissal: Guidance from the Court of Appeal
Legal Update
Mitigating the impact of school data breaches
Legal Update
AI adoption in schools: Meeting ICO expectations
On-Demand
EdCon 2025: Top five takeaways
Legal Update
Navigating SARs in schools
Legal Update
Reflecting our communities: The push for diversity in school governance
Press Release
Browne Jacobson bolsters education team with hires across key specialisms
Legal Update
New case has implications for school exclusions and legal aid
Legal Update
Browne Jacobson’s EdCon conference for school leaders returns for fifth year
Legal Update
DEI in school governance: Interview with Chiltern Learning Trust leadership
Press Release
Browne Jacobson and National Governance Association unites to address the diversity deficit in school governance
Legal Update
School governance: Driving change through diverse leadership
Legal Update
Addressing the diversity deficit in school governance: A call to action
Legal Update
New ICO guidance on employment practices and data protection
Guide
School admission arrangements, applications and requests
Legal Update - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
How will the new Schools Bill address teacher misconduct?
Legal Update - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
Schools Bill to bring changes to teachers’ pay and conditions
Legal Update - Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
What does the new Bill mean for school uniform?
Press Release
Education predictions: What does 2025 have in store for schools, trusts and universities?
Legal Update
Legal views on the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill
Press Release
Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill: Comments from education lawyers
Legal Update
Stark increase in rates of school suspensions and exclusions
Legal Update
Navigating workplace sexual harassment laws during the festive season
Press Release
Comments on the latest SEND tribunal statistics
On-Demand
Managing safeguarding allegations against staff
Legal Update
The power of storytelling (and curiosity)
On-Demand
Shaping a culture of respect and safety: Preventing sexual harassment in our schools
Legal Update
Top five takeaways for schools on the Employment Rights Bill
Legal Update
New High Court case on exclusion reconsiderations
On-Demand
How schools can grapple with new employment law to thrive in a new era
Guide
New guidance for intervention in schools
